James Robert "J.R." Gustafson, a 13-year-old boy from Mount Pleasant, Pennsylvania, tragically died on March 20, 2016. He was born on June 21, 2002, and was a seventh-grade student at Mt. Pleasant Area Junior-Senior High School. J.R. was known for his love of hunting and fishing, and he aspired to become a volunteer firefighter. He is survived by his parents, Mark A.
and Leah Smith Gustafson, his sister Rachel, and his three brothers Mark Jr., Michael, and Zackary.
On the evening of his death, J.R. was at a friend's house on South Church Street in Mount Pleasant when he was fatally shot in the face. The incident occurred while he and a 14-year-old friend were playing with a gun. The 14-year-old, whose name has not been disclosed due to his juvenile status, claimed that the gun accidentally discharged while they were playing with it. The weapon was found on the front porch of the house.
The 14-year-old was charged with criminal homicide and unlawful possession of a weapon. His preliminary hearing was waived, and his attorney requested that the case be moved to juvenile court. The suspect was held in a juvenile detention facility while awaiting further legal proceedings. The case drew significant attention due to the young ages of both the victim and the suspect, and the community expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss.
The investigation revealed that several witnesses were present at the scene, including an 18-year-old babysitter who was watching the children at the house. The babysitter informed the police that the suspect had retrieved the gun from under a mattress. The gun did not have a magazine, but there was a live round in the chamber.
The community, including the Mt. Pleasant Volunteer Fire Department, which J.R. aspired to join, mourned his loss and offered support to his family. The school district provided counseling for students and organized fundraising and remembrance activities to honor J.R.'s memory.
The case remains a poignant reminder of the dangers of firearms and the importance of responsible gun ownership and safety education.
